Abbott takes steps to regulate data centers in Texas as the governor's race tightens

Abbott made the comments as part of a statewide tour focused on affordability, according to CBS News. The governor's race in Texas has tightened, and the remarks mark a shift in tone from Abbott, who has previously courted data center investment as a sign of economic growth.

"What we have seen is a necessity to rein in an industry that was completely out of control," Abbott said, signaling he plans to take steps toward regulating the industry.

Data centers have drawn scrutiny across the country for driving up electricity demand and, in some cases, water use. Both can push up costs for regular ratepayers. Abbott framing the industry as a target for regulation, rather than a business win, suggests those pressures have become politically hard to ignore heading into a competitive election cycle.

For rural Texans on the affordability tour stops, the shift could mean new limits on an industry that has been expanding rapidly across the state. It is not yet clear what specific rules or legislation Abbott intends to pursue.

Voters will decide this cycle whether that turnaround sticks.